In order to earn the BOC Certification and become a Certified Building Operator (CBO), you must pass a comprehensive exam. Individuals are eligible to sit for the exam when:
- They have completed the BOC Level I training (or equivalent) program AND
- Submitted their exam application and received notice of approval
What is the Certification Exam?
The Certification Exam is a 3 hour test that addresses the following work functions for which building operators should demonstrate knowledge and skills. You must score 67% to pass.
| Exam Blueprint | Percent | Items |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Work Functions | 100% | 100 |
| Section A. 27 Items | 27% | 27 |
| Maintain Energy Using Building Systems, Equipment, and Envelope to Minimize Energy Use | ||
| Section B. 41 Items | 41% | 41 |
| Operate Energy Using Systems for High Performance | ||
| Section C. 17 Items | 17% | 17 |
| Perform Technical and Administrative Duties | ||
| Section D. 15 Items | 15% | 15 |
| Maintain Indoor Environmental Quality to Standards | ||
| Total Items = | 100 |
How to prepare for the exam
All critical work functions that make up the Certification Exam are part of the BOC Level I training course. In addition, we offer the following exam preparation resources:
- A series of free Exam Resource Guides.
- BOC Certification Exam Prep kit, available in Building Potential’s BOC Learning Management System (LMS). Request access here.
- Recorded Exam Prep webinars are also available for purchase.
The chart below shows which BOC course materials correspond with which Critical Work Functions covered in the Certification Exam.
| Critical Work Functions | Corresponding Training |
|---|---|
| Section A: Maintain Energy Using Building Systems, Equipment, and Envelope to Minimize Energy Use | BOC Classes 1001–1007, 2001 & 2010 |
| Section B: Operate Energy Using Systems for High Performance | BOC Classes 1001–1008, 2001 & 2010 |
| Section C: Perform Technical and Administrative Duties | BOC Classes 1001, 1003–1007, 2001 & 2010. Recorded webinars #1-4 from year 2015. |
| Section D: Maintain Indoor Environmental Quality to Standards | BOC Classes 1001, 1003, and 1005 |
Open book exam policy
The Certification Exam is an open book exam and candidates are responsible for their open book resources. Hard copy versions of BOC Course Handbooks and BOC Exam Resource Guides are allowed. Printed or handwritten notes prepared by the candidate are also allowed. Please read the full BOC Certification Exam Open Book Policy on pages 12-13 of the BOC Certification Candidate Handbook for full details on permitted and prohibited materials and exam conduct and procedures.
BOC aligns with ISO 17024
We have undertaken an initiative to align the BOC program with an international standard for organizations that certify personnel. Learn details about the ISO 17024 alignment. Part of this change is the addition of this comprehensive exam. Learn more about the Certification.